Attorney General William Tong has announced a $2 million settlement with Pike Fuels, formerly known as Gulf Oil, over environmental violations at its New Haven petroleum distribution facility. The agreement addresses allegations from a Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency investigation dating back to 2019. The investigation uncovered various violations, including falsified records, inaccurate emissions reporting, failure to conduct necessary equipment inspections, and unreported changes to storage tanks.
The settlement includes a $1.2 million civil penalty and $800,000 allocated for environmental remediation and monitoring. This funding will support first responders in New Haven with $100,000 and another $100,000 will go towards environmental justice initiatives in the area.
"Gulf Oil ran a defective operation and falsified records to cover its tracks," said Attorney General Tong. He emphasized the importance of compliance with environmental laws for fossil fuel companies in Connecticut and warned of aggressive action against future violations.
DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes highlighted the health risks posed by Pike Fuels' violations, stating that they released volatile organic compounds that could lead to increased respiratory issues and greater cancer risk. "DEEP won’t tolerate illegal practices that put profit over people," she asserted.
New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker stressed the importance of abiding by laws and regulations for businesses operating in the area. "This settlement sends a clear message... if you violate our environmental laws and standards, there will be a price to pay," he said.
Pike Fuels operated the New Haven terminal from 1988 until April 2024 when it sold the facility to Global Partners Limited. The site transfers petroleum products between delivery trucks, pipelines, and large storage tanks.
Petroleum distribution facilities are significant sources of hazardous air pollutants; thus they must adhere to strict regulations. An investigation revealed multiple instances where Gulf Oil fabricated inspection records to falsely assure compliance regarding tank leaks.
Assistant Attorney General Dan Salton and Deputy Associate Attorney General Matthew Levine assisted in this matter.